6-25
Sterilizer Operation Operator Manual P129394-176
6.14.1 Dart (Bowie-Dick) Test This cycle is used to conduct a Dart (Bowie-Dick) test on sterilizers
that use prevacuum cycles. This test is only applicable to sterilizers
that use prevacuum cycles. For SFPP sterilizers, if the SFPP cycle is
used exclusively, there is no need to run a daily Dart (Bowie-Dick)
test. If prevacuum cycles will also be run on the same sterilizer, then
a daily Dart (Bowie-Dick) test must be run.
The Dart (Bowie-Dick) test is designed to document the removal of
residual air from a sample challenge load (see Section 4.2.2, Testing
for Prevacuum Efficiency, on page 4-2). Refer to S
ECTION 4,
T
ECHNIQUES OF STERILIZATION, when constructing the Bowie-Dick test
pack.
ANSI/AAMI ST-79 requires a Dart test cycle be run as the first cycle
each day the sterilizer is in use. The chamber must be at operating
temperature when the Dart test cycle is performed. The Warm-up
cycle should be completed prior to performing the Dart test cycle.
NOTE: Always run this test cycle with either racks installed, or with an
empty cart in the chamber.
1. Refer to S
ECTION 6.1, BEFORE OPERATING THE STERILIZER, ON
PAGE 6-1, and to Section 4, Techniques of Sterilization, to
prepare the unit for running this cycle.
2. Press the MORE CYCLES button to access the test cycle screen.
3. A Dart test should only be run in a machine that is at operating
temperature (that is, has run one or more cycles). If the sterilizer
has not run any cycles prior to the Dart (Bowie-Dick) test, run the
Warm-up cycle as follows. If the chamber has already been
warmed by previous cycle operation, proceed to Step 4.
a. The operator is prompted to close the chamber door, if it is
open. Once closed, the door seals automatically.
b. During “warm up,” the sterilizer automatically runs a cycle
with 3-minute sterilize and 1-minute dry values.
c. Once the Warm-up cycle is complete, the display returns to
Test Cycles screen.
4. Open the chamber door (if it is not already open). Load the Dart
(Bowie-Dick) test pack and close the door.
NOTE: For most accurate results, test pack should be located
low in the chamber, over the drain.
5. Start the Dart test cycle. The cycle runs automatically, as follows:
ACTIVATE SEAL – Steam enters the door seal, pressing seal
against inside surface of door.
VACUUM/PRESSURE PULSES – #1 - #4 – Vacuum pulses
(drawing from 2 - 24 inHg) are followed by pressure pulses
(0.2 - 15 psig).
CHARGE – Chamber is charged with steam. Start of steam
charge is printed.
WARNING – BURN HAZARD:
• Sterilizer, rack/shelves and
loading equipment will be hot
after cycle is run. Always
wear protective gloves and
apron when removing a
processed load. Protective
gloves and apron must be
worn when reloading
sterilizer following the
previous operation.
• Steam may be released from
the chamber when door is
opened. Step back from the
sterilizer each time the door
is opened to minimize
contact with steam vapor.
WARNING – PERSONAL
INJURY and/or EQUIPMENT
DAMAGE HAZARD: When
closing the chamber door,
keep hands and arms out of
the door opening and make
sure opening is clear of
obstructions.
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